How to: Warm Weather Plant Care
As UK summers become increasingly warmer and drier, gardeners are faced with new challenges when it comes to keeping plants healthy in hot weather. While the occasional heatwave used to be rare, it’s now becoming more common—and knowing how to adapt your gardening routine is key to helping your plants thrive.
Water Wisely
One of the most important things to get right during hot spells is your watering routine. It’s not just about quantity, but timing and technique. The best time to water is early in the morning or late in the evening, when temperatures are lower and water has a better chance of soaking into the soil rather than evaporating.
Avoid giving plants a light sprinkle—this encourages shallow roots and doesn’t help in the long term. Instead, aim for a deep, thorough watering at the base of the plant, which encourages roots to grow deeper and helps the plant withstand dry spells better.
Mulching Matters
Mulch is a gardener’s best friend in hot weather. Adding a 5–8 cm layer of organic mulch—like compost, bark, or straw—around the base of your plants helps trap moisture in the soil and suppress weeds, which also compete for water. It’s especially useful around vegetable beds and in borders with thirsty plants like hydrangeas or roses.
Move and Protect Container Plants
Potted plants tend to suffer more during heatwaves because their roots are more exposed and containers dry out quickly. Group pots together in a shaded area to help reduce stress, and place trays or saucers underneath to catch excess water. If you can, move more delicate containers out of direct sunlight during the hottest part of the day.
Keep an Eye on Lawns and Borders
It’s tempting to water the lawn during a heatwave, but healthy grass is surprisingly resilient. While it may go brown in dry weather, it usually bounces back when rain returns. Save your water for more vulnerable plants. When mowing, raise the cutting height to keep the grass longer—it shades the soil and reduces evaporation.
Indoor Plants Need Care Too
Hot weather can also affect houseplants, especially those near windows. Move them away from strong direct sun and keep an eye on soil moisture. Some tropical houseplants appreciate a gentle misting to boost humidity—but avoid misting succulents or plants with fuzzy leaves, which may rot.
Shade and Shelter
For newly planted or delicate plants, consider using temporary shading like garden fleece, shade cloth, or even an old parasol during peak sunlight hours. A well-placed screen or windbreak can also reduce moisture loss caused by hot winds.
Final Thoughts
Hot weather doesn’t have to mean losing your plants to the heat. With a few sensible steps—like adjusting your watering schedule, using mulch, and offering some shade—you can help your garden thrive, even during the UK’s increasingly common heatwaves. Your plants (and your water bill) will thank you.